Review: SFW (Sci-Fi Warrior) at Hafan y Môr, Pwllheli

Performers from the entertainment and dance troupe Area 51 dressed as mythical fawns at the Pwllheli fantasy and sci-fi convention (Image: Arwyn Roberts)

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And nowhere else could the immortal Star Trek lines of ‘It’s life, but not as we know it’ feel more at home as fans dressed as the likes of Orcs, Elves and Wookies for the three-day event.

To the uninitiated, this fancy dress costume party - or ‘Cosplay’ - could feel a little unnerving but within the confines of holiday park on the outskirts of Pwllheli, it quickly felt the norm and a liberating experience for those taking part.

SFW's (Sci-Fi Warrior) success has clearly come from carving out a niche of providing a convention all in one area, where fans can leave reality at the caravan park’s reception and delve into the realms of fantasy for a long weekend.

Whereas other conventions could bring judgment, sneers and jeers for such costume antics from the general public during travel from venue-to-venue there is no such concern here.

Granted, growing up on a staple diet of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Roswell High and Star Trek: Next Generation does makes it slightly easier to talk and party with a Necron Overlord from Warhammer than someone completely unfamiliar with the genre.

Non-costume wearers needn’t feel left out completely though – with plenty of events, film screenings, trade stalls, prop exhibitions, gaming contests and workshops throughout the convention to cater for all tastes.

Another attraction was the guest appearances from a host of stars from the world of film, TV, comic books and literature with many doing Q&A sessions on the main stage as well as autograph signings and photo sessions.

Arguably, most of the guests in attendance are either rising stars, steady TV performers, minor characters or those made famous from shows currently off-air as opposed to currently trending A-listers.

But that is not a fault solely of Sci-Fi Weekender but more a general criticism of conventions in general – studios, work commitments and the expense of getting the latest names as marquee appearances are always going to be difficult.

There was also plenty of dancing and music to bring the curtain down on each day ranging from classic live music from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop to quirky rapper Professor Elemental - with the odd bikini-clad monkey thrown in for good measure.

Yes, you heard the last bit correctly, a statement which just typifies the weird and wonderful world of SFW - buckle up, leave your inhibitions at home and enjoy the ride...